The shop sells second-hand baby goods and Mrs Norbury said the rise in charity shops has taken its toll.

Staff at Stead and Simpson are boxing up the remaining stock.

One worker was critical of the handling of the delayed Modus redevelopment of the town centre, saying: “I think they should have done that development when they said they would.”

News of the latest shop closures comes as business leaders admitted they were ‘very concerned’ with the situation.

South Cheshire Chamber of Commerce chief executive John Dunning said: “The chamber is disappointed to see any shop closures. The business community is also getting very concerned about Crewe town centre and its future and is planning to hold talks with the local authority about future development.

“We know it’s unfortunate the Modus scheme didn’t work out but that shouldn’t be the end of it.”

Crewe and Nantwich MP Edward Timpson said: “This is clearly an upsetting time for the workers in the affected shops and also for their families.

“Unfortunately, it is the same recession that has caused problems for these four companies that has caused problems for Modus.

“The new council has been quick to grapple with the situation, which is pleasing, but regeneration is not a fast process. I will, of course, help wherever I can.”